We all spend money on everyday items without even thinking about the pennies we could swap for a few extra minutes.
I, myself, am one of these people. Having a busy class schedule mixed with clubs, organizations, and friends can be stressful. However, taking a few extra moments to DIY everyday items can take away the stress of the financial burdens we carry.
Make your own cleaning supplies
How many times have you gone to Walmart to buy cleaning wipes? How much do you spend on laundry detergent over the year? Maybe even the fancy smelling soap and candles to keep your room clean and fresh?
All of these things can be made for less, and last longer. Swap out cleaning wipes with a make at home cleaning spray and an old wash cloth.
The chemicals you use for laundry detergent can be bought to make your own and last you up to 6 months!
Basic soaps with a few drops of essential oils can be bought in bulk and the supply lasts much longer for less dollars.
The DIY recipes are endless online, whether found through pinterest, tiktok, or even just google!
Mix your own meal prep mixes
Some of my favorite breakfasts involve muffins, protein shakes, or a quick grab of a granola bar on the go. It wasn’t until recently that I realized how much I could save by making these at home, easy on the go, and taste even better.
Muffins in a mug are quick and simple; yet, making the mixes to throw into the cup and place in the microwave is even easier. Essentially, you make your own cake mix that gives you multiple muffins rather than buying premade muffins that can be moldy and dry in just a few days.
Rather than buying premade protein shakes, I switched to protein powder. This gives the option to mix whatever flavor you want! It just takes powder, sugar free jello or sweetener, some milk, and a shake blender! The powder can cost just as much as premade shakes bought in bulk, last longer, and gives the endless options of whatever shake you desire at that moment!
Granola bars can be easy to grab and go, but the cost adds up quickly. Making these from home tastes better, and the supplies are actually cheaper than a box itself when you add up the total servings produced! Even better, you don’t need an oven or stove. Just grab the ingredients, a mixing bowl and spoon, and pan. You can make whatever flavor desired, and the grab and go ease remains the same!
Blend your own spices and creamers
I, for one, am a coffee addict.
However, I seem to spend endless amounts on creamer and k-cups. This, again, is an area that I didn’t have to spend my entire budget on. I switched to reusable k-cup pods and bulk coffee grounds, and have not had to buy coffee in months!
As far as the creamer goes, I have all of the ingredients in my cabinet and fridge that I never used before the expiration date through just baking. It took a little milk, heavy cream, vanilla, and sugar! The recipes on this are almost endless and can be found most anywhere!
How often do you make tacos, marinated beef, or any other rubs for your cooking? These one time packages you buy can be made in bulk for many uses from the spices directly in your pantry! A few simple recipes will have you mixing spices in a jar and falling in love with cooking even more.
Saving money does not have to add more stress to your day. By switching to a few DIY recipes, setting aside time in your week, and making products at home you can continue to enjoy your space and food, yet allow for more areas to save money and go out for fun! Being financially stable does not have to be a burden, instead it is a journey to fall in love with.